We are lucky to have access to weather apps, meteorologists, and radar that let us know when a storm is on its way. But did you know that your furry friend could help you determine when bad weather is coming? Researchers and dog parents have wondered for a long time if their dog’s storm anxiety was just from the fear of storms or if their reactions are linked more to the sensing of these storms. Do our dogs have supernatural abilities, or are they just specially tuned to sniffing out storms? We’ll answer that question today and learn how to offer support to our furry weather forecasters.
Can your Dog Sense an Incoming Storm?
While there isn’t a 100% confirmed answer to this question, many scientists have concluded that dogs can sense a storm on the horizon. There are many ways this “sixth sense” can alert your pup. Your dog may experience shock from the changing static electricity in the environment. If you’ve ever noticed your dog run to a bathroom before or during a storm, it’s likely because that area is a safe, grounded space. Fido feels more secure there because they are safe from the possibility of an electric shock.
Your pup may also need to find a safe place to hide because of changes in vibrations. Your dog can feel thunder rumbling from miles away, even before you feel it.
They might also feel changes in the humidity, which could cause other behavioral changes. Your canine’s heightened sense of smell and hearing allows your dog to see changes in the atmosphere. These could be changes in air pressure, smell, or vibrations.
Storm-Induced Behavioral Changes in Your Pup
Changes in the environment can cause anxiety and stress for your furry friend. If you notice any of these behavioral changes, you may be looking at a storm in the near future.
Hiding: This standard behavior is pretty universal for most breeds. Your dog may hide under the bed or in the bathroom to avoid the sound of thunder and light flashes.
Shaking: Dogs have more sensitive ears than we do, so shaking may occur after a loud sound or intense rainfall. Ensure you give your furbaby the attention they need to reassure them of their safety during intense storms.
Urination or Destructive Behavior: Either of these behaviors could be a response to fear or distress from an incoming storm. If you notice your pup misbehaving and rain is in the focus, you may want to give them extra support and a little TLC.
Helping Fido Cope with Storm Anxiety
Depending on how intensely your dog fears or reacts to storms, you may want to approach care and coping with them differently. Regardless of their fear, make sure your dog is safe inside from any dangerous weather.
For mild fear, offer your dog support. They might need a quick cuddle or want to sit on your lap. Give them plenty of attention and speak to them in a calm, comforting tone. You may also want to gauge your dog’s patience level. Even if they are less scared of storms, they may not want to be played with or touched, considering the changes in their typical environment.
Desentiziation is a preventative way to help your pet cope with storms. Play rain or storm sounds over a loudspeaker as white noise. This will get your pup comfortable with the sounds associated with storms.
For pups suffering from more substantial anxiety, you may consider putting your doggie in a TunderShirt. This anti-anxiety vest applies pressure to your dog’s body, helping to calm them and reduce anxiety. Imagine you’re swaddling a baby, this shirt will soothe your pup until a storm has passed.
Check out more tips for helping an anxious dog here!
While our dogs do not have special superpowers, their senses certainly are super! Now, when you see your pup scurry into the bathroom, you can expect a loud crash of thunder or maybe some heavy rain. Scoop up your pup and offer them hugs and kisses. They’ll appreciate the support!